With Tim DeRuyter implementing a more physical, cover two scheme, the Aggie cornerbacks excelled. Judie and Frederick, both more suited to play in the flats, were two of the main reasons the Aggies shut down the bubble passing game. Both players were also capable of helping out against the running game. They, however, showed their deficiencies in man-coverage when LSU had success down the field in the Cotton Bowl loss. The safeties — Hunter, Campbell and Terrell — struggled early in the season. However, Campbell’s play late in the season was vital to this defense’s late-season success.

Off-season recap

Judie, Frederick and Campbell were all out for the entirety of spring camp after undergoing various surgeries in the offseason. Their injuries did, however, allow Hurd Jr. to get more snaps. Hurd, an undersized corner, held his own against premier receiver Jeff Fuller for the last two weeks of camp. His performance in the spring has him as the frontrunner to be this team’s nickel corner when fall camp begins in August.
2011 outlook

The Aggies are stout out wide with Frederick and Judie, who should improve with another year in DeRuyter’s system. If Campbell can stay healthy, the safety position will become less of a concern. Problem being that Campbell is yet to stay healthy in his time at A&M. The position battle to watch will be between Harris, Hurd, Lionel Smith and newcomer Floyd Raven for that nickel corner position. Regardless of who comes out on top, the defensive backfield is suited to play against the quick passing games the Big 12 offers.